Portable computer pedestal method and apparatus

ABSTRACT

A support apparatus and method for providing ergonomic viewing positions to portable devices such as a portable computer. In an exemplary embodiment, a pedestal generally includes a base having a recess formed to receive a portable device, an anchor movably coupled to the base, and a support pivotally coupled to the base. The portable device may include a desktop portion and a display portion. The anchor may be formed to engage the portable device when the desktop portion of the portable device is disposed in the recess of the base. The support may extend upwardly from the base for holding the display portion of the portable device. According to one aspect of invention, the support apparatus and method provide advantages in that viewability of a laptop computer can be readily extended by ergonomically orienting the laptop computer through the use of a portable pedestal.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to a pedestal and moreparticularly to a portable pedestal for providing structural support toportable devices including portable computers such as a laptop ornotebook computer.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Prior art pedestals for portable computers, sometimes called stands,bases, or docking stations, are known to those skilled in the art. Forexample, a conventional docking station is typically used for holding aportable computer such as a laptop or notebook computer. As mostportable computers comprise a movable display screen, when docked, it isdesirable that the display screen may be suitably oriented or positionedfor proper viewing by one or more users.

A problem with this technology has been that viewing of a display screenof a portable computer by multiple users can be difficult. For example,in a group presentation with a laptop computer placed on a table, it isextremely difficult for a group of individuals to view the displayscreen as it can only be typically positioned in a restricted fashionthat limits viewing range and/or fails to provide an ergonomic viewingposition as well. Therefore, what is required is a solution thatfacilitates simultaneous viewing of the display screen by a group ofindividuals.

Another problem with this technology has been that even during a singleuser session, the display screen could only be positioned at such heightthat a single user has to look down, thereby pulling the neck andshoulders to lean forward into an uncomfortable hunched position.Therefore, what is also required is a solution that provides forergonomic viewing positions of the display screen to a user.

One unsatisfactory approach, in an attempt to solve the above-discussedproblems typically involves using a large and bulky stand or base for aportable computer to sit upon. However, a disadvantage of this approachis that a relatively large and/or bulky stand or base could be acumbersome peripheral to carry around. Further, a large and/or bulkystand or base may be aesthetically unattractive. Therefore, what is alsoneeded is a solution that meets the above-discussed requirements in amore effective manner.

Heretofore, the requirements of providing more effective viewability ofa display screen of a portable computer without compromising portabilityand/or aesthetics referred to above have not been fully met. What isneeded is a solution that simultaneously addresses all of theserequirements.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally provides an apparatus and method forproviding ergonomic viewing positions to a variety of portable devicesincluding a portable computer. In one exemplary embodiment, a supportapparatus may include a base having a recess formed to receive aportable device, an anchor movably coupled to the base, and a supportpivotally coupled to the base. The portable device may include a desktopportion and a display portion. The anchor may be formed to engage theportable device when the desktop portion of the portable device isdisposed in the recess of the base. The support may extend upwardly fromthe base for holding the display portion of the portable device.According to one aspect of invention, the apparatus and method provideadvantages in that viewability of a laptop computer can be readilyextended by ergonomically orienting the laptop computer through the useof a portable pedestal.

In another exemplary embodiment, a pedestal may include a base having ahousing formed to receive a portable computer and a support. The supportmay be movably coupled to the base to releasably engage the portablecomputer at an ergonomic viewing position responsive to the placement ofthe portable computer in the housing of the base.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, a portable computer pedestal isprovided for selectively orienting a portable computer having a desktopportion and a display screen in an ergonomic viewing position. Accordingto one aspect of the invention, the portable computer pedestal includesa pedestal base having a housing formed to receive the portable computerand a support having a mounting portion. The support may be movablycoupled to the pedestal base for releasably engaging the portablecomputer responsive to the placement of the desktop portion in thehousing of the pedestal base. The desktop portion could be disposedadjacent to the mounting portion in a secure relationship therewith.

According to another aspect of the invention, a support apparatus mayinclude a first portion and a second portion operably coupled to thefirst portion for providing vertical support thereon. Furthermore, athird portion may be movably coupled to the first portion. The thirdportion may be formed to provide a housing between the first and thirdportions. In addition, a fourth portion may be fixedly coupled to thethird portion and movably coupled to the first portion. The fourthportion may be formed to provide the housing responsive to anactivation.

According to a yet another aspect of the invention, a portable computerpedestal for ergonomic viewing may include a front bezel and a backbezel operably coupled to the front bezel. The back bezel may be formedto provide a housing to receive an object having a distal end andremovably clamping the distal end of the object therein substantiallyagainst the front bezel. The portable computer pedestal may furtherinclude an easel operably coupled to the back bezel for providingvertical support thereon to the object. Further, a retractable pedestalbottom may be fixedly coupled to the front bezel and movably coupled tothe back bezel. The retractable pedestal bottom and the front bezel maybe formed to selectively move the back bezel either in a first directionto release the back bezel from the front bezel for providing the housingor in a second direction to engage the back bezel with the front bezelfor holding the object therebetween.

According to a yet further aspect of the invention, a portable pedestalincludes a base to receive a display device, and a support pivotallycoupled to the base for releasably engaging the display device in anergonomic orientation such that the display device is disposed in anupright vertical position providing an improved viewing range suitablefor a plurality of viewers.

According to a further aspect of the invention, a method generallyincludes (a) providing a base having a recess formed to receive aportable device having a desktop portion and a display portion; (b)providing an anchor for engaging the desktop portion in the recess ofthe base; (c) providing a support for holding the display portion of theportable device; and (d) interposing the desktop portion in the recessfor ergonomically positioning the portable device.

According to yet a further aspect of the invention, a method fororienting a portable computer having a desktop portion and a displayscreen in an ergonomic viewing position is provided. The methodgenerally includes (a) providing a pedestal base having a housing formedto receive the desktop portion of the portable computer; (b) providingan anchor for releasably engaging the desktop portion in the housing ofthe pedestal base; (c) providing a support for releasably holding thedisplay screen of the portable computer; and (d) causing the displayscreen of the portable computer to be disposed at the ergonomic viewingposition in response to placement of the desktop portion in the housingwhile the display screen being supported by the support.

The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technicaladvantages of the present invention in order that the detaileddescription of the invention that follows may be better understood.Additional features and advantages of the invention will be describedhereinafter which form the subject of the claims of the invention. Itshould be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conceptionand specific embodiment disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis formodifying or designing other structures for carrying out the samepurposes of the present invention. It should also be realized by thoseskilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart fromthe spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appendedclaims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a more complete understanding of the present invention and theadvantages thereof, reference is now made to the following descriptionstaken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a portablecomputer pedestal being retracted for receiving a portion of a portablecomputer in accordance with one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 2A is a front-end perspective view of the exemplary embodiment forthe portable computer pedestal of FIG. 1 with the support in a fullyextended position to accommodate a portable computer in a verticalorientation according to one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 2B is a backend perspective view of the exemplary embodiment forthe portable computer pedestal of FIG. 1 with the support in a fullyextended position to accommodate a portable computer in a verticalorientation according to one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a partially cut away perspective view of FIG. 1 from the frontside with the door removed to show exemplary details in accordance withone aspect of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a partially cut away perspective view of FIG. 1 from thebackside with the door removed to show exemplary details in accordancewith one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 5A is a partially cut away front-end perspective view of FIG. 1from front side with the retractable pedestal bottom exposed toillustrate exemplary details in accordance with one aspect of theinvention.

FIG. 5B is a partially cut away front-end perspective view of FIG. 1from backside with the retractable pedestal bottom exposed to illustrateexemplary details in accordance with one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 6A is a top perspective view of the back bezel of FIG. 1 depictingexemplary details in accordance with one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 6B is a bottom perspective view of the back bezel of FIG. 1depicting exemplary details in accordance with one aspect of theinvention.

FIG. 7A is a top elevational view of the back bezel of FIG. 1 with theeasel and door removed to show representative details according to oneaspect of the invention.

FIG. 7B is a left side edge elevational view of the back bezel of FIG.7A.

FIG. 7C is another side edge elevational view of the back bezel of FIG.7A.

FIG. 8A is a bottom elevational view of the door of FIG. 1 illustratingexemplary details in accordance with one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 8B is a left side edge elevational view of the door of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 8C is another side edge elevational view of the door of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9A is a top elevational view of the easel of FIG. 1 depictingexemplary details consistent with one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 9B is a bottom elevational view of the easel of FIG. 9A showingrepresentative details according to one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 9C is a side edge elevational view of the easel of FIG. 9B.

FIG. 10A is a top elevational view of the front bezel of FIG. 1illustrating exemplary details in accordance with one aspect of theinvention.

FIG. 10B is a side edge elevational view of the front bezel of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 10C is a bottom elevational view of the front bezel of FIG. 10Adepicting representative details consistent with one aspect of theinvention.

FIG. 10D is another side edge elevational view of the front bezel ofFIG. 10A.

FIG. 11A is a perspective view of the button of FIG. 1 illustratingexemplary details in accordance with one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 11B is a side edge elevational view of the button of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 11C is another side edge elevational view of the button of FIG.11A.

FIG. 11D is a bottom elevational view of the button of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 12A is a bottom perspective view of the easel extension of FIG. 1depicting representative details according to one aspect of theinvention.

FIG. 12B is a bottom elevational view of the easel extension of FIG.12A.

FIG. 12C is a right side edge elevational view of the easel extension ofFIG. 12B.

FIG. 12D is another side edge elevational view of the easel extension ofFIG. 12B.

FIG. 13 is a sectional perspective view of the exemplary embodiment forthe portable computer pedestal of FIG. 1 illustrating the easel in anextended orientation with the easel latch being operative to deploy theeasel extension according to one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 14A is a perspective view of the easel latch of FIG. 1 showingexemplary details according to one aspect of the invention.

FIG. 14B is a top side edge elevational view of the easel latch of FIG.14A.

FIG. 14C is a left side edge elevational view of the easel latch of FIG.14A.

FIG. 14D is a front side edge elevational view of the easel latch ofFIG. 14A.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an exemplary application for theportable computer pedestal of FIG. 1 with a portable computer beingremovably docked therein to provide an ergonomic viewing position inaccordance with one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 16A is a view of an exemplary embodiment of a portable laptopcomputer pedestal being activated responsive to a first user action inaccordance with one aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 16B is a view of the portable laptop computer pedestal of FIG. 16Aillustrating a pedestal door being opened away from a base anchormovably coupled to a pedestal base.

FIG. 16C is a view of the portable laptop computer pedestal of FIG. 16Billustrating a pedestal support being pivotally oriented in a verticalorientation.

FIG. 16D is a view of the portable laptop computer pedestal of FIG. 16Cillustrating the pedestal door being closed with the pedestal supportpositioned in the vertical orientation.

FIG. 17A is a view of the portable laptop computer pedestal of FIG. 16Dbeing activated responsive to a second user action in accordance withone aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 17B is a view of the portable laptop computer pedestal of FIG. 17Aillustrating pedestal housing being provided with the base anchor movingaway from the pedestal base.

FIG. 17C is a view of the portable laptop computer pedestal of FIG. 17Billustrating a portable laptop computer being disposed in the pedestalhousing in a vertical orientation.

FIG. 17D is a view of the portable laptop computer pedestal of FIG. 17Cillustrating the base anchor movement towards the pedestal base forsecurely engaging a first portion of the portable laptop computer in thepedestal housing while a second portion of the portable laptop computerbeing held by the pedestal support to provide an ergonomic viewingposition thereto.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The invention relates generally to a pedestal and more particularly to aportable pedestal for providing ergonomic support to a portable deviceincluding, but is not limited to a portable computer such as a laptop ornotebook computer generally comprising a display screen and a desktopbase. Specifically, the invention contemplates positioning a portablecomputer in an ergonomic viewing position such as a fully opened statehaving the display screen of the portable computer oriented in a planesubstantially parallel to the desktop base of the portable computer.Thus, according to one aspect of the invention, the portable computermay be ergonomically oriented in a substantially upright and/or verticalposition to facilitate relatively improved viewability by a single userand/or a group of individuals. The invention should, however, notnecessarily be restricted to the field of these applications, geometricfeatures or materials as will be readily evident. The use of the samereference numerals in different drawings indicates similar or identicalterms.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a portablecomputer pedestal 50 being retracted for receiving a portion of aportable device such as a portable computer (not shown) in accordancewith one aspect of the invention. The portable computer pedestal 50 maycomprise a base 60 having a housing 65 formed for receiving the portionof the portable computer, an anchor 70 movably coupled to the base 60,and a support 75 operably coupled to the base 60.

As persons skilled in the art will appreciate that typical portablecomputers generally include a desktop computer base and a foldabledisplay screen. Accordingly, the portable computer may include a desktopportion and a display portion. The anchor 70 may be formed for engagingthe portable computer when the desktop portion of the portable device isdisposed in the housing 65 of the base 60. The support 75 may beoperably coupled to the base 60 and extend upwardly therefrom forholding the display portion of the portable computer. For example, thesupport 75 may be pivotally coupled to the base 60.

In one exemplary embodiment, the base 60 may comprise a back bezel 80having a door 85 operatively coupled thereto. For example, the door 85may be selectively and/or automatically opened and closed to provide thesupport 75. The support 75 may include an easel 90, an easel extension100 to extend the easel 90 upwardly from the base 60, and an easel latch105 to fixedly hold the easel extension 100 at a desired position. Theeasel 90 may be operably coupled to the back bezel 80 for providingvertical support thereon to the portable computer.

The anchor 70 may include a front bezel 120 operably coupled to the backbezel 80. The front bezel 120 could be formed for providing the housing65 to receive the portable computer therein. For example, the desktopportion of the portable computer may be removably clamped in the housing65 against the back bezel 80. In particular, the desktop portion havinggenerally a distal end may be securely disposed within the housing 65.

The base 60 may include a retractable pedestal bottom 130 movablycoupled to the back bezel 80 and fixedly coupled to the front bezel 120.The retractable pedestal bottom 130 in conjunction with the front bezel120 may be formed for permitting a selective lateral movement of theback bezel 80. Such selective lateral movement could be either in afirst direction to release the back bezel 80 from the front bezel 120.Thus, in turn providing the housing 65. Alternatively, the selectivelateral movement could be in a second direction for engaging the frontbezel 120 with the back bezel 80 in a manner to securely hold theportable computer therebetween.

In operation, to releasably engage the desktop portion within thehousing 65 of the base 60, in a secure relationship therewith, a lockingmechanism may be provided through the anchor 70. Similarly, a latchingmechanism may be included for the support 75 to releasably hold thedisplay portion in a secure relationship therewith. Furthermore, forautomatically operating the anchor 70, in a horizontal plane, to receiveone end of the desktop portion of the portable computer within thehousing 65, an activation mechanism could be readily devised. Forexample, the activation mechanism may include a button 125. Theactivation mechanism may further comprise an ejector mechanism forcausing the support 75 to automatically move in a predeterminedposition. The predetermined position of the support 75 facilitatesclamping of the display portion of the portable computer thereto. Fordisengaging the anchor 70 from the base 60 to decouple the distal end ofthe desktop portion of the portable computer, a release mechanism may beprovided which could include a lever (not shown).

In one exemplary embodiment, for the present exposition, representativedetails for a variety of the above referenced mechanisms are generallydescribed herein with reference to following drawings. Persons skilledin the art will recognize that these, and other, aspects of theinvention will be better appreciated and understood when considered inconjunction with the following description and the accompanyingdrawings. It should be understood, however, that the followingdescription, while indicating exemplary embodiments of the invention andnumerous specific details thereof, is given by way of illustration andnot of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within thescope of the invention without departing from the spirit thereof, andthe invention includes all such modifications.

FIG. 2A is, as viewed in the drawing figure, a front-end perspectiveview of the exemplary embodiment for the portable computer pedestal 50of FIG. 1 with the support 75 in a fully extended position toaccommodate a portable computer (not shown) in a vertical orientationaccording to one aspect of the invention. FIG. 2B is, as viewed in thedrawing figure, a backend perspective view of the exemplary embodimentfor the portable computer pedestal 50 of FIG. 2A. Referring now to FIGS.2A and 2B, the easel extension 100 generally extends the easel 90 forsecurely positioning the display portion of the portable computer atsuch a height that allows relatively easy viewing for either anindividual user or a group of two or more individuals while the portablecomputer may be supported in a vertical orientation within the housing65. For instance, the easel extension 100 may be extended upwardly usinga torsion spring 150 of appropriate spring strength while the door 85 issubstantially closed.

FIG. 3 is, as viewed in the drawing figure, a partially cut awayperspective view of FIG. 1 from the frontside with the door 85 removedto show exemplary details in accordance with one aspect of theinvention. Likewise, FIG. 4 is, as viewed in the drawing figure, apartially cut away perspective view of FIG. 1 from the backside with thedoor 85 removed to show exemplary details in accordance with one aspectof the invention. With reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, the torsion spring150 may include at least two extended legs for appropriate deploymentthereof. For example, with suitably located catches devised for holdingthe two extended legs, the torsion spring 150 may be deployed. It is tobe understood that the torsion spring 150 could be readily mounted on aneasel pivot rod 155 of the easel 90. As an example, the torsion spring150 of approximate spring strength of 6 to 8 pounds/inch (lb./in) may beadvantageously deployed. The back bezel 80 may comprise longitudinalribs 160A and 160B (not shown) for coupling to the retractable pedestalbottom 130. The retractable pedestal bottom 130 may comprisefastener-receiving towers 170A and 170B for coupling the front bezel 120thereto. The retractable pedestal bottom 130 may further comprisesupport posts 180A and 180B for operably mounting the button 125thereon.

FIG. 5A is, as viewed in the drawing figure, a partially cut awayfront-end perspective view of FIG. 1 from front side with theretractable pedestal bottom 130 exposed to illustrate exemplary detailsin accordance with one aspect of the invention. Likewise, FIG. 5B is, asviewed in the drawing figure, a partially cut away front-end perspectiveview of FIG. 1 from backside. Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, theretractable pedestal bottom 130 may encompass base grooves 200A and 200Bfor movably receiving the respective longitudinal ribs 160A and 160B.For instance, each of the longitudinal ribs 160A and 160B may includeone or more teeth at respective distal ends for snapping in theassociated base grooves 200A and 200B. Furthermore, the retractablepedestal bottom 130 may include base snap ports 205A and 205B forsecurely coupling to the back bezel 80. In addition, the retractablepedestal bottom 130 may include a ratchet mechanism including a track210 having one or more inclined teeth into which a lever (not shown)having one or more teeth disposed on a distal end may traverse to alloweffective motion in one direction only.

For a damped operation of the back bezel 80, a base snap post 215 and anassociated damper track 220 may be employed to provide a spring loadedlever (not shown) to traverse along the damper track 220. Morespecifically, the torsion spring 150 either may be in a stretched statewhen the back bezel 80 is closed or in a compressed state when the backbezel 80 is opened to form the housing 65. The retractable pedestalbottom 130 may further include an erected structure 225 having a ramp230 generally formed on the top and a bump 235 which is advantageouslyformed on a side. In one embodiment, weight snaps 240A and 240B may beattached to the retractable pedestal bottom 130 for providingsignificantly improved center of gravity and stability to the portablecomputer pedestal 50.

In operation, while locking and/or unlocking the back bezel 80, adesired motion may be imparted thereto. Accordingly, while setting-up orunlocking, first the door 85 is released by having a lever (not shown)ride up the bump 235. On the door 85 closing, the lever moves on thetrack 210 for locking. As an example, button 135 may be pressed toactivate unlocking of the back bezel 80. Conversely, the lever may beactivated to lock the back bezel 80. Those skilled in the art, however,will recognize that the invention contemplates embodiments that providelocking and/or unlocking with other mechanisms.

FIG. 6A is, as viewed in the drawing figure, a top perspective view ofthe back bezel 80 of FIG. 1 depicting exemplary details in accordancewith one aspect of the invention. FIG. 6B is, as viewed in the drawingfigure, a bottom perspective view of the back bezel 80 of FIG. 1depicting exemplary details in accordance with one aspect of theinvention. With reference to FIG. 6A, the back bezel 80 houses the easel90 (not shown). To engage the door 85 (not shown), the back bezel 80generally includes door hinge hooks 300A and 300B which may be providedgenerally at a distal end thereof. However, it is to be understood theother forms of coupling may be readily employed for the door 85. For theeasel 90 operation, back bezel 80 may comprise an activation tab 305 andan easel release 310.

Referring to FIG. 6B, the back bezel 80 may further include easelretention snaps 325A and 325B. A spring retainer 330 may also beprovided to enable a controlled operation of the easel 90. Theactivation tab 305 may be advantageously contemplated as a ratchethaving a set of teeth formed thereon. The easel release 310 could beadvantageously devised as a seesaw to pivot at a point for selectivelyreleasing the easel 90 in response to an activation generally governingthe release thereof. The back bezel 80 may further include a set of ribsnap posts 340A through 340D for movably coupling to the retractablepedestal bottom 130 (not shown). Specifically, by snapping the set ofrib snap posts 340A through 340D within respective base grooves 200A and200B (not shown), the back bezel 80 can be operably coupled to theretractable pedestal bottom 130.

FIG. 7A is, as viewed in the drawing figure, a top elevational view ofthe back bezel 80 of FIG. 1 with the easel 90 and door 85 removed. FIG.7B is, as viewed in the drawing figure, a side edge elevational view ofthe back bezel 80 of FIG. 7A. Similarly, FIG. 7C is, as viewed in thedrawing figure, another side edge elevational view of the back bezel 80of FIG. 7A. With reference to FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C, representativedetails of the back bezel 80 are depicted according to one aspect of theinvention. However, as those skilled in the art will appreciate thatnumerous shapes, forms, and mechanisms could be readily devised for theback bezel 80 without digressing from the scope and spirit of theinvention.

FIG. 8A is, as viewed in the drawing figure, a bottom elevational viewof the door 85 of FIG. 1. FIG. 8B is, as viewed in the drawing figure, aside edge elevational view of the door 85 of FIG. 8A. Likewise, FIG. 8Cis, as viewed in the drawing figure, another side edge elevational viewof the door 85 of FIG. 8A. As shown in FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C, exemplarydetails of the door 85 are illustrated in accordance with one aspect ofthe invention. For pivotally coupling the door 85 to the back bezel 80(not shown), the door 85 may include door hinges 350A and 350B generallylocated on the interior side at a distal end thereof. The door hinges350A and 350B could be readily snapped to the appropriately aligned doorhinge hooks 300A and 300B (not shown). At the other opposite distal end,the door 85 may further include a finger slot 360, which permits liftingand/or closing of the door 85. To securely close the door 85, a pair ofclosure rib snaps 355A and 355B may be suitably disposed on the interiorside thereof.

FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C depict, as viewed in the drawing figures, top,bottom, and side edge elevational views of the easel 90 of FIG. 1,respectively, showing representative details consistent with one aspectof the invention. Referring to FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C, the easel 90 mayinclude a gear piece 375, easel tracks 380A and 380B. The gear piece375, at one end of the easel pivot 155, generally permits rotary dampingwhile tracking on the damper track 220 (not shown) when the easel 90 isbeing either vertically oriented or laterally housed. The easel tracks380A and 380B enable selective movement of the easel latch 105 (notshown) thereon for extending the support 75 (not shown) upwardly, ifdesired. The easel 90 may further include an easel catch 390 to receiveone of the legs of the torsion spring 150 therein.

FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C and 10D show exemplary details, as viewed in thedrawing figures, in top, side edge, bottom, and another side edgeelevational views of the front bezel 120 of FIG. 1, respectively. Inaccordance with one aspect of the invention, as illustrated in FIGS.10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D, the front bezel 120 of FIG. 1 may receive thebutton 125 (not shown) within the interior of a button housing 400.Additionally, on a mating end 405, the front bezel 120 may furtherinclude a hollow guide structure 410 having, as viewed in the drawingfigures, a pair of tapered projections 415A and 415B. The pair oftapered projections 415A and 415B may be outwardly oriented proximal toleft and right sides on the mating end 405 of the front bezel 120. Thepair of tapered projections 415A and 415B may be respectively alignedwith undersides of the back bezel 80.

As depicted in FIG. 10C, formed on the underside of the front bezel 120,are a pair of projected orifices 420A and 420B, and a set of hinges 425Athrough 425C. Each projected orifice 420 may comprise threads formedtherein to receive screws or fasteners for fixedly latching the frontbezel 120 onto the retractable pedestal bottom 130 (not shown). The setof hinges 425A through 425C may receive the support post 180A (notshown) for operably mounting the button 125 thereon.

In operation, the hollow guide structure 410 permits the pair of taperedprojections 415A and 415B to slide in or out along the respectiveundersides of the back bezel 80 responsive to an activation such as auser pressing the button 125. As contemplated in one embodiment, theback bezel 80 laterally traverses away from the front bezel 120 toprovide the housing 65 (not shown) therebetween. Conversely, releasing alever (not shown) could reverse the travel of the back bezel 80 toeither securely clamp onto an object inserted within the housing 65 orpermit travelling thereof towards the front bezel 120 for positioningsubstantially against thereto.

FIGS. 11A through 11D relate to the button 125 of FIG. 2A illustratingexemplary details in accordance with one aspect of the invention. Inparticular, FIG. 11A is a perspective view of the button 125. FIG. 11Bis, as viewed in the drawing figure, a side edge elevational view of thebutton of FIG. 11A. Likewise, FIG. 11C is, as viewed in the drawingfigure, another side edge elevational view of the button of FIG. 11A.FIG. 11D is, as viewed in the drawing figure, a bottom elevational viewof the button of FIG. 11A.

With reference to FIGS. 11A through 11D, the button 125 may comprise abutton head 450 connected to a retractable tab 460. The button 125 mayfurther include a pair of return springs 470A and 470B, which may beoppositely extended from a joint 475. Connected at the joint 475 may bea pivot pin 480. The pivot pin 480 could be operably disposed at thesupport post 180A (not shown). Additionally, formed at a distal end ofthe longitudinal peripheral surface of the retractable tab 460, anactivation wedge 485 having a ramp 490. Alternatively, a torsion springmay be deployed operative in a manner to facilitate the operation of thebutton 125. The retractable tab 460 could movably interact with the backbezel 80 for either releasing the easel 90 and/or moving the back bezel80, the front bezel 120, and/or both the front and back bezels 80, 120to form the housing 65. Accordingly, it is to be understood that, whenappropriately activated, the button 125 could employ any suitablespring-loaded design for sliding in and/or out from the button housing400 (not shown).

In operation, the pair of return springs 470A and 470B in conjunctionwith the pivot pin 480 may permit an activation for the button 125responsive to a user action including, but is not limited toappropriately pressing the button head 450. As a result, the button 125may enable the retractable tab 460 to initialize a coordinated and/orautomatic operation of the portable computer pedestal 50 of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 12A through 12D relate to the easel extension 100 of FIG. 1depicting representative details according to one aspect of theinvention. Specifically, FIG. 12A is a bottom perspective view of theeasel extension 100. FIG. 12B is, as shown in the drawing figure, abottom elevational view of the easel extension 100 of FIG. 12A. FIG. 12Cis, as shown in the drawing figure, a side edge elevational view of theeasel extension 100 of FIG. 12B. FIG. 12D is, as shown in the drawingfigure, another side edge elevational view of the easel extension 100 ofFIG. 12B. Referring to FIGS. 12A through 12D, the easel extension 100may comprise a set of snap pins 475A through 475D for movably mountingonto the easel 90 (not shown). Thus, the height of the support 75 (notshown) may be selectively adjusted by sliding the easel extension 100over the easel 90. To this end, in one embodiment, recesses 480A, 480Band associated channels 485A, 485B may be suitably configured within theeasel extension 100.

Referring to FIG. 13, a sectional perspective view of the portablecomputer pedestal 50 of FIG. 1 generally illustrates an extendedorientation for the support 75 according to one aspect of the invention.More specifically, the extended orientation contemplates that the easellatch 105 operatively deploys the easel extension 100 in an extendedposition relative to the easel 90. For example, the easel latch 105 maybe shifted along an easel groove 490 while riding over the easel tracks380A and 380B (not shown) either upwardly or downwardly to arrive at aspecific height that may be desired.

FIGS. 14A through 14D relate to the easel latch 105 of FIG. 1 showingexemplary details according to one aspect of the invention. Inparticular, FIG. 14A is a perspective view of the easel latch 105 ofFIG. 1. FIG. 14B is, as viewed in the drawing figure, a topside edgeelevational view of the easel latch of FIG. 14A. FIG. 14C is, as viewedin the drawing figure, a left side edge elevational view of the easellatch of FIG. 14A. FIG. 14D is, as viewed in the drawing figure, a frontside edge elevational view of the easel latch 105 of FIG. 14A. Withreference to FIGS. 14A through 14D, the easel latch 105 may comprisehandles 500A and 500B for adjusting the position of the easel extension100. For tracking over the easel tracks 380A and 380B, the easel latch105 may further comprise tabs 505A and 505B, each having a ratchet 510,510A and 510B formed at the respective distal ends. In operation, byimparting a selected movement to the easel extension 100 either in anupward or downward direction through the easel latch 105, a desiredheight for the support 75 may be configured.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a laptop computer pedestal 540 with alaptop computer 550 being removably docked therein to provide anergonomic viewing position in accordance with one aspect of the presentinvention. In particular, FIG. 15 shows the laptop computer 550 having alaptop screen 560 and a laptop base 570 disposed in a verticalorientation. With the laptop computer 550 fully opened and positioned onedge, the laptop screen 560 is substantially higher than laptop base570.

The laptop computer pedestal 540 could comprise a variety of materialsincluding, but not limited to, metallic, plastic, ceramic, alloy, and/orwood. For manufacturing, the significant features for the materials thatmay determine a particular choice may include the desired strength ofthe laptop computer pedestal 540 to handle the laptop computer 550.

As examples, fabrication of the various components could range betweensolid, extruded or molded pieces, to metallic frames or chassis coveredin plastic, to wood-milled and constructed parts painted finished orcovered in plastic, to injection molded plastics, to plastic formsfilled with sand or metal. Such manufacturing materials maysubstantially resemble that commonly used for manufacturing of typicallaptop computers. Moreover, any suitable fabrication technology, in aknown manner, can be generally employed to fabricate the laptop computerpedestal 540 for use with a variety of electronic applications.

Accordingly, the invention generally has the added benefit of providinga relatively more desirable ergonomic position of the laptop screen 560as opposed to the conventional usage of typical laptop computers. Theresulting vertical orientation of the laptop screen 560, therefore, maysignificantly reduce eyestrain and reflections from overhead lightsources. In addition, the laptop computer pedestal 540 can accommodatevariations of laptop computer designs.

One implementation of the laptop computer pedestal 540 may include amouse and/or keyboard accessory for easier operation of the laptopcomputer 550 when secured therewith. It may also include a cover for thekeypad portion of the laptop computer 550 for a more attractivepresentation. Another embodiment of the laptop computer pedestal 540 mayinclude a housing engineered to fit around the laptop base 570, andhinged onto the laptop computer pedestal 540 in such a way as to allowthe laptop computer 550 a full range of motion form horizontal tovertical directions. This could also allow accessibility to peripheraldevices generally located at the front of the laptop base 570.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a method mayprovide a base having a recess formed for receiving a portable devicehaving a desktop portion and a display portion. In addition, an anchormay be provided for engaging the desktop portion in the recess of thebase. The anchor could be operably coupled to the base. Furthermore, forholding the display portion of the portable device, a support may beprovided. The support could be pivotally coupled to the base. Finally,the desktop portion may be interposed in the recess for ergonomicallypositioning the portable device.

The method may further comprise engaging the desktop portion forreleasably locking the desktop portion in the recess of the base in asecure relationship therewith. Likewise, the method may further compriselatching the display portion for releasably holding the display portionwith the support in a secure relationship therewith.

According to another aspect of the present invention, the base, anchor,and support may be configured to form a portable computer pedestal.Moreover, the portable computer pedestal could be operative in a mannerto cause the portable device to position in a vertical orientationrelative to the base. The vertical orientation may include an ergonomicviewing position for the portable device.

More specifically, for orienting a portable computer having a desktopportion and a display screen in an ergonomic viewing position, a methodmay comprise providing a pedestal base having a housing formed forreceiving the desktop portion of the portable computer. An anchor may beprovided for releasably engaging the desktop portion in the housing ofthe pedestal base. Further, for releasably holding the display screen ofthe portable computer, a support may be provided. The method may furtherinclude causing the display screen of the portable computer to bedisposed at the ergonomic viewing position in response to placement ofthe desktop portion in the housing while the display screen beingsupported by the support.

FIGS. 16A through 16D relate to an activation process of an exemplaryembodiment of a portable laptop computer pedestal 600 in accordance withone aspect of the present invention. With reference to FIGS. 16A through16D, in particular, FIG. 16A is a view of the portable laptop computerpedestal 600 being activated responsive to a first user action 605. Forexample, the first user action 605 could entail pressing a button (notshown) to initiate an automatic operation of unfolding of the portablelaptop computer pedestal 600. In FIG. 16B, a pedestal door 610 is beinggenerally opened away from a pedestal base 620 and a base anchor 630.FIG. 16C is a view of the portable laptop computer pedestal 600illustrating a pedestal support 640 being pivotally oriented in avertical orientation generally indicated by an arrow 645. As shown inFIG. 16D, the pedestal door 610 is being closed and the pedestal support640 positioned in the vertical orientation to receive a portable laptopcomputer generally having a desktop portion generally including akeyboard, and a display screen. Accordingly, the portable laptopcomputer can be readily oriented in a desired ergonomic viewingposition.

FIGS. 17A through 17D relate to a clamping process of the portablelaptop computer pedestal 600 in accordance with one aspect of thepresent invention. Referring to FIGS. 17A through 17D, specifically,FIG. 17A is a view of the portable laptop computer pedestal 600 beingactivated responsive to a second user action 700. As the base anchor 630is movably coupled to the pedestal base 620, in FIG. 17B, a pedestalhousing 705 is being provided with the base anchor 630 moving away fromthe pedestal base 620. Next, disposing a portion of a representativecomputer 710 within the pedestal housing 705 in a vertical uprightorientation is illustrated in FIG. 17C. As shown by a representativearrow 725 in FIG. 17D, the base anchor 630 moves towards the pedestalbase 640 for securely engaging the portion of the representativecomputer 710 within the pedestal housing 705 while the rest of therepresentative computer is being held by the pedestal support 640 toprovide the desired ergonomic viewing position.

The foregoing describes only one embodiment of the present invention;however, many variations of this embodiment will be obvious to a personskilled in the art of computer parts fabrication. Certainly, variousother materials and techniques can be utilized in the construction ofthe various components of the pedestal.

Moreover, other implementations can be readily contemplated. Forexample, in one embodiment, a portable computer pedestal comprises apedestal base and a vertical support, which can be folded together toprovide a compact design and ease of portability. The portable computerpedestal securely holds a portable computer having a display screen in asuitable position to enable an ergonomic viewing position level of thedisplay screen, which is significantly higher than a conventionalviewing position level of the display screen. In addition, the portablecomputer pedestal may secure the portable computer by any means known inthe art. For example, the portable computer could be secured to thepedestal base by means including, but is not limited to, an elasticcord, a locking device, a built-in clamping mechanism or any othersimilar housing mechanism. To firmly secure the portable computer in adesired ergonomic position, the portable computer pedestal may employVelcro or the alike.

According to another embodiment, a laptop computer is secured to a standby an elastic cord that hooks from the stand around the front and backto the stand. According to another embodiment, the laptop computer issecured to the stand by means of a mechanically installed lockingdevice. According to another embodiment, the laptop computer is securedby means of a clamping mechanism built into the base of the pedestal.According to another embodiment, the laptop computer is secured to thestand by means of clamping appendages that secures the laptop computerto the stand. According to the invention, the pedestal can have a standthat can be folded into, onto, or next to the base to make it compactwhen not in use. According to the invention, the pedestal may house anyvariety of accessories for the laptop, such as speakers, ports,electrical plugs, business card holder or pencil holder, or computermouse storage.

Generally speaking, it is a feature of the present invention to positiona laptop computer having a display screen opened to 180 degrees in avertical orientation and positioning the display screen at a highervantage point relative to a height provided by conventional means.Another feature of the present invention is to provide a stand modularlyintegrated with the laptop computer for positioning the display screenat a desired height to enable an easy viewing thereof by a group of twoor more persons. It is also a feature to provide a stand that positionsthe display screen at such a height so that with the use of an optionalkeyboard, a mouse and/or other accessories the laptop computer becomessubstantially more ergonomically situated for a typical user and/orusers. Another feature is that the invention could be a portable andreadily collapsible design of a pedestal, which readily transforms intoa streamlined and easily transportable size and shape. Yet anotherfeature of the present invention is to position the display screen at asubstantially vertical position so as to prevent reflection fromoverhead light sources, reducing eyestrain and improving the displayscreen viewability and image quality. It is also a feature of thepresent invention to provide an aesthetic presentation of the laptopcomputer in the vertical orientation. It is also a feature of thepresent invention to incorporate a cover to hide the laptop keyboardwhen the laptop computer is oriented in the substantially verticalposition.

It is also a feature of the present invention to accommodate differentsizes and shapes of laptops computer that vary by manufacturer, makeand/or model. For example, in one embodiment to have attachment to apedestal, such as a sleeve, housing or slot configured to accommodatedifferent sizes and shapes of laptop computers which vary bymanufacturer, make and/or model. It is a further feature of theinvention for the aforementioned housing attachment be able to pivotthrough a full range of positions from horizontal to vertical, and toprovide for accessibility to one or more device openings generallylocated at the front (when in horizontal orientation) of a laptopcomputer. It is also a feature of the present invention to provideunrestricted access to one or more ports, plugs, and other items locatedon the back and/or sides of the laptop computer.

Although the present invention and its advantages have been described indetail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions andalterations can be made to the embodiments herein without departing fromthe spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to belimited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine,manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps describedin the specification. As one of ordinary skill in the art will readilyappreciate from the disclosure of the present invention, processes,machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps,presently existing or later to be developed that perform substantiallythe same function or achieve substantially the same result as thecorresponding embodiments described herein may be utilized according tothe present invention. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended toinclude within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture,compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.

I claim:
 1. A support apparatus, comprising: a base having a recessformed to receive a portable device, the portable device having adesktop portion and a display portion; an anchor movably coupled to saidbase, the anchor formed to engage the portable device when said desktopportion of said portable device is disposed in the recess of said base;and a support operably coupled to said base, the support extendingupwardly from the base, said support including a mounting portion formedto hold the display portion of said portable device, the desktop portionbeing disposed adjacent to the mounting portion in a secure relationshiptherewith, the support being hinged onto said base for selectivelyorienting the portable device by moving the display portion with respectto the base.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a lockingmechanism for the anchor to releasably engage the desktop portion withinthe recess of said base in a secure relationship therewith.
 3. Theapparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a latching mechanism for thesupport to releasably hold the display portion in a secure relationshiptherewith.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, said portable device includes alaptop computer.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1, said portable deviceincludes a notebook computer.
 6. A support apparatus, comprising: a basehaving a recess formed to receive a portable device, the portable devicehaving a desktop portion and a display portion; an anchor movablycoupled to said base, the anchor formed to engage the portable devicewhen said desktop portion of said portable device is disposed in therecess of said base; and a support operably coupled to said base, thesupport extending upwardly from the base for holding the display portionof said portable device; said base, anchor, and support are configuredto form a pedestal operative in a manner to cause said portable deviceto position in a vertical orientation relative to said base, saidvertical orientation including an ergonomic viewing position for theportable device, said ergonomic viewing position including a portabledevice position with the display portion opened to 180 degrees from thedesktop portion in a vertical plane relative to said base.
 7. A supportapparatus, comprising: a base having a recess formed to receive aportable device, the portable device having a desktop portion and adisplay portion; an anchor movably coupled to said base, the anchorformed to engage the portable device when said desktop portion of saidportable device is disposed in the recess of said base; and a supportoperably coupled to said base, the support extending upwardly from thebase for holding the display portion of said portable device, saiddisplay portion being operative in a manner to cause the display portionof said portable device to orient in a plane substantially parallel tothe desktop portion.
 8. The apparatus of claim 7, further comprising: anactivation mechanism for automatically sliding the anchor, in ahorizontal plane, away from the base to receive one end of the desktopportion of said portable device within said recess.
 9. The apparatus ofclaim 7, said base, anchor, and support are configured to fold in amanner to provide a portable pedestal.
 10. The apparatus of claim 8,said activation mechanism includes a button.
 11. The apparatus of claim8, said activation mechanism further comprising: an ejector mechanismfor causing the support to automatically move in a predeterminedposition, the predetermined position of said support facilitatesclamping of said display portion of the portable device thereto.
 12. Theapparatus of claim 11, further comprising: a release mechanism fordisengaging the anchor from the base to decouple said one end of thedesktop portion of said portable device, said release mechanism includesa lever.
 13. A portable computer pedestal for selectively orienting aportable computer having a desktop portion and a display screen in anergonomic viewing position, comprising: a pedestal base having a housingformed to receive said portable computer; and a support having amounting portion, the support is movably coupled to the pedestal base toreleasably engage the portable computer responsive to the placement ofsaid desktop portion in the housing of said pedestal base, the desktopportion being disposed adjacent to the mounting portion in a securerelationship therewith, the support being operative in a manner to causethe display screen of said portable computer to orient in a planesubstantially parallel to the desktop portion.
 14. A method, comprising:providing a base having a recess formed to receive a portable devicehaving a desktop portion and a display portion; providing an anchor forengaging the desktop portion in the recess of said base; providing asupport for holding the display portion of said portable device; andinterposing the desktop portion in said recess for ergonomicallypositioning said portable device with said display portion oriented in aplane substantially parallel to a plane of the desktop portion.
 15. Themethod of claim 14, further comprising: engaging the desktop portion forreleasably locking the desktop portion in the recess of said base in asecure relationship therewith.
 16. The method of claim 14, furthercomprising: latching the display portion for releasably holding thedisplay portion with the support in a secure relationship therewith. 17.The method of claim 14, said portable device includes a laptop computer.18. The method of claim 14, said portable device includes a notebookcomputer.
 19. The method of claim 14, said base, anchor, and support areconfigured to form a pedestal.
 20. The method of claim 19, said pedestalincludes a portable computer pedestal.
 21. The method of claim 19, saidpedestal is operative in a manner to cause said portable device toposition in a vertical orientation relative to said base.
 22. The methodof claim 21, said vertical orientation includes an ergonomic viewingposition for the portable device.
 23. A method for orienting a portablecomputer having a desktop portion and a display screen in an ergonomicviewing position, comprising: providing a pedestal base having a housingformed to receive said desktop portion of the portable computer;providing an anchor for releasably engaging the desktop portion in thehousing of said pedestal base; providing a support for releasablyholding the display screen of the portable computer; and causing thedisplay screen of the portable computer to be disposed at said ergonomicviewing position in response to placement of the desktop portion in saidhousing while the display screen being supported by said support withthe display screen oriented in a plane substantially parallel to a planeof the desktop portion.
 24. A support apparatus, comprising: a firstportion; a second portion operably coupled to said first portion forproviding vertical support thereon; and a third portion movably coupledto said first portion, the third portion formed to provide a housingbetween the first portion and the third portion; a fourth portionfixedly coupled to the third portion and movably coupled to the firstportion, the fourth portion formed to provide said housing responsive toan activation.
 25. The apparatus of claim 24, the activation isoperative in a manner to cause either: a release of said second portionfrom the first portion responsive to a first user activation, the firstuser activation provides said housing; or an engagement of said secondportion with the first portion responsive to a second user activation,the second user activation securely engages said first portion with saidsecond portion.
 26. The apparatus of claim 24, the first portion is aback bezel.
 27. The apparatus of claim 24, the second portion is aneasel.
 28. The apparatus of claim 24, the third portion is a frontbezel.
 29. The apparatus of claim 24, the fourth portion is a pedestalbase.